Menopause
Over half the UK population will go through menopause, yet there's not nearly enough education or conversation on the subject. We've consulted our experts to bring you information and support.
What is menopause?
Menopause is when women stop having periods. There are a range of symptoms associated with this, which can affect everyone differently.
Menopause is usually a natural occurrence, at the average age of 51 in the UK, but it can happen later or much earlier.
Early menopause is menopause before age 45, and affects around 5% of women, while premature menopause is menopause before age 40, which affects 1% of women under 40, and 0.1% of women under 30.
There can be many reasons why menopause occurs earlier – it can happen naturally, or it can be due to receiving treatment for cancer, or following a procedure such as a hysterectomy.
Stages of menopause
Perimenopause
Perimenopause is the time leading up to the menopause when symptoms associated with hormonal changes start to appear – this can start in your early 40s.
Menopause
Menopause is the specific time when you have your last period.
Post menopause
Post menopause is a retrospective diagnosis that is given 12 months after
you've had your last period. You may still have some symptoms associated with menopause.